Nothing is worse than having your air conditioning fan not working on one of the hottest days of the summer. Breakdowns occur when you least expect it, but if you know what to look for, you can repair the problem before it requires a replacement. Your air conditioning fan has two functions: removing the warm air from your house and blowing cool air back into your home. When your AC fan stops working, your system’s overall functionality and efficiency will be affected. Finding yourself stuck with an air conditioning fan not working can leave you feeling frustrated and confused. Discover how to know when to replace or repair your system and what signs to look out for before a breakdown occurs.
Signs Your Air Conditioning Fan Is Not Working
Air conditioning systems have many components, and when a part breaks, the signs can vary. Knowing what signs to look for when your air conditioning fan is not working and addressing the issue promptly will help you avoid costly repairs in the future. Some indications of a breakdown can be seen externally, such as damaged fan blades, debris lodged in the blades, or improper spinning of the blades.
Other signs to watch for your air conditioning fan not working properly are:
- Unusual noises: Grind or screeching can indicate your bearings are worn out. Clicking, ticking, or rattling indicates a loose or damaged fan blade or debris stuck in the fan.
- Inconsistent cooling: Reduced airflow will not distribute cooled air evenly throughout your home, creating hot spots.
- Warm air flow: When your AC circulates warm air throughout your home, it can indicate a problem with your fan motor, blades, or other components.
- Cycling on and off: Your unit works overtime to compensate for the broken parts, causing your energy bills to rise. If your system struggles to maintain airflow, your unit may shut off to prevent further damage or overheating.
How Air Conditioning Units Work
Your air conditioner removes the heat trapped in your home and transfers it outside to cool the indoor environment. The outside unit transfers the air over its coils, cooling it to bring it back into your home. Your unit’s thermostat, located in the indoor unit, monitors the temperature and humidity that flow back into your home. It contains a refrigerant that absorbs heat from the indoor air and reenters your home at your set temperature. If your air conditioning fan is not working properly, there will be no air circulation throughout your home, and it may be time for a repair. No cool air will be dispersed throughout the home, leaving you and your family uncomfortably warm.
Common Reasons Why Air Conditioning Fans Stop Working
There are many different types of air conditioning units, but most units have two main fans. When your fan stops working, you must first identify if it is your outdoor or indoor unit fan. Maintaining your AC unit will help prolong its life, but if you wait too long to fix it, you may have to replace the fan or even the entire unit.
Some common reasons your air conditioning fan is not working properly are:
- Failing capacitor
- Burned-out motor
- Broken blade
- Frozen coils
- Blocked ducts
- Sensor issues
Do I Need to Replace Equipment?
Most minor problems are easily repaired, but if you wait to tend to minor ones, they will cause bigger problems. Easily repaired minor problems include dirty or clogged filters, small refrigerant leaks, and issues with fan bearings or electrical faults. However, there are also signs your system is ready for a replacement. Signs your air conditioning fan is not working and your unit needs to be replaced include:
- Units over 10-15 years old.
- The AC fan will not start or stop.
- Component failures, such as the compressor or condenser coil in older units.
- A rattling noise coming from the outdoor unit.
Need Help with Your AC Upgrade?
If your AC stops working, you need fast, reliable service to restore your home’s comfort. Contact Viviano to speak with a technician and schedule an appointment. One of the best ways to prevent your air conditioning fan from not working is by keeping up with routine maintenance. With our Viviano Maintenance Membership Program, you’ll receive routine maintenance and priority on emergency calls, all while saving money. Contact us today, and our experienced technicians will ensure things are in top-notch shape and working smoothly.
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